Partner Partner Content Why early detection for cancer matters

This article was made in partnership with Parkview Health.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. – more than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined, according to the American Cancer Society. 

The disease develops quietly, with symptoms typically not appearing until the disease is already advanced. However, there is good news: Studies have shown that lung cancer has a much better survival rate when found at an early stage with lung cancer screening scans.

“I can’t overemphasize the importance of lung screening to identify cancers early when they are more easily treated and cured,” says Dr. Alan Yahanda, president of the Packnett Family Cancer Institute at Parkview Health. 

Because the data shows that early detection saves lives, Parkview Health recently launched “Show Up For Them,” a public awareness campaign meant to encourage individuals, ages 40 to 80, across northern Indiana and northwest Ohio, to prioritize routine cancer screenings.

The campaign aims to reduce preventable cancer deaths by helping more people detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective. The effort focuses on five key screening areas: breast, lung, colorectal, prostate and cervical cancers.

“We know the earlier cancer is found, the better the chance for a positive outcome,” explains Yahanda. “But too many people put off screenings because of fear, lack of time or uncertainty. This campaign reminds our community that showing up for your screening is a way to show up for the people who matter most.”

“Show Up For Them” is grounded in the observation that many people are faithful about showing up to support family members, friends and community day in and day out, but they may not care for themselves with the same level of dedication. Getting screened for cancer is an important self-care step that could save a person’s life so they can keep being there for the special people and causes that are dear to them.

The Show Up For Them website breaks down which screenings are recommended based on age, gives explanations of the screenings, offers insights on what to expect, and provides links to scheduling options for each screening.  

Backing the campaign is a range of local initiatives designed to make screenings and other important resources more accessible.

Established in 2005, Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography coach brings screenings to neighborhoods across the region year-round. The 40-foot-long motor coach offers a mobile, private space for 3D screening mammograms, which only take 15 minutes. Radiologic technologists from the Breast Diagnostic Center (BDC) staff the coach, which is furnished with the same FDA-approved and Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA)-approved 3D equipment as the stationary sites of the BDC. Board-certified breast-imaging radiologists from FWRadiology interpret the exams.

Screening mammography through Francine’s is available for women who are 40 years or older, have no current breast problems, can climb stairs without assistance, and have not had a mammogram in the past year. Many insurance plans are accepted, and funding is available to cover expenses for women who do not have sufficient financial resources.

Parkview’s DNA Insights Program, launched to the public in 2025, can help individuals identify if they are at risk for certain cancers, which can guide personalized screening recommendations. DNA Insights is open to individuals who are 18 years of age or older and have or are willing to create a Parkview MyChart account. There is no cost to participate, and health insurance is not required. Enrollment takes just a few minutes online, followed by a single lab visit.

Representing the campaign, Yahanda also appeared on PBS’ Healthline for an in-depth conversation on lung cancer. Additionally, Parkview Health sponsored a series with WFFT to educate viewers on topics related to breast and lung cancer. 

In an effort to spread more awareness, Parkview Health partnered with professional football player Alec Pierce, who plays for the Indianapolis Colts. As part of the My Cause My Cleats initiative, Pierce wore custom cleats designed by Chicago native Dillon DeJesus during their home game on Nov. 30.

Piece’s cause? Show up for your team. His “Screen for Your Team” collaboration asks fans to screen for their team and get the recommended cancer screenings – not only for themselves, but for the people who depend on them.

The cause is especially personal to Pierce, whose mother, Stephanie, is a breast cancer survivor. Her story helped inspire the cleat designs and the message behind them.

Pierce says his mother’s experience is the reason he’s committed to encouraging others to get screened.

“Everyone has a team — the people who count on you and support you,” Pierce says. “My family has always been my team, and my mom’s cancer journey is why I’m committed to encouraging others to get screened. When you take care of your health, you’re also taking care of them.”

The cleats were created as an extension of Parkview’s “Show Up for Them” campaign, incorporating Parkview’s colors and diamond pattern along with the “Screen for Your Team” theme. One cleat features a series of hands representing the people who support you — with a pink hand paying tribute to Pierce’s mother and her breast cancer journey. The other includes an “S”-shaped cancer ribbon, designed in her honor, reinforcing the idea that getting screened is a way to show up for those who matter most.

“We’re honored to partner with Alec in sharing such an important message,” says Yahanda. “Too often, we meet patients who wish they’d come in sooner. Stories like the Pierces’ remind us why early detection matters and how the decision to get screened today can mean more time with the people you love down the road.”
For more information or to schedule a screening, visit www.ShowUpForThem.com.

This article was made in partnership with Parkview Health.